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F a l l 2 0 1 8 • forwardHR | 5 T his past June, I had an opportunity to attend the 2018 SHRM Annual Human Resources Conference in Chicago along with more than 17,000 human resources professionals, not to mention the exhibitors, speakers and nearly 1,000 volunteers. It was reported to be the most attended human resources conference in SHRM's history and in the world. Impressive! So, why were there so many human resources professionals in attendance? Could it be the programming, the keynote speakers, location, certification credits?Yes. With the rapidly changing work environment HR practitioners and our employers recognize the way for our profession to be relevant is to stay current. Our organizations need us now more than ever! e human resources profession offers many career paths and adventures. You have an opportunity to choose your own HR adventure. As an enterprising professional, explore the many opportunities to find your passion. ere are many ways to learn more about a particular field in human resources, including internships, shadowing or getting involved in your local SHRM chapter. When I started out in human resources, I began my career in talent acquisition. I joined my local chapter and participated on a committee that was foreign to me at the time -- performance and development. I learned so much from that volunteer experience and realized I had more to offer. For those who have been in the profession for a while, I challenge you to continue to grow and step outside your comfort zone. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Step in and volunteer to take on new stretch assignments that you would normally shy away from. It was not my goal to become president of a local SHRM chapter or to serve as your WISHRM State Director. My goal was to continue to grow my human resources acumen, develop my leadership skills and make new connections. Be BOLD! Yes, stretching can sometimes bring growing pains, but it is the way to remain relevant and not become stagnant. Share your knowledge and grow your leadership skills by getting involved. ere are many opportunities to volunteer at the state and local levels. Visit our website at www.wishrm.org to learn more about how to get involved with the Wisconsin SHRM State Council or get connected with a local chapter. ere is no better time to be in human resources than right now! is is my last year serving as your State Director. It has been a wonderful experience working alongside so many talented human resources professional volunteers. As I reflect on my two years as State Director, I am proud of what we have accomplished together. Here are some highlights: • Achieving the 2017 SHRM Platinum Excel Award for outstanding achievements in state council operations, meaningful programs and services to HR professionals in our state • Providing State, Leadership, Student and Day on the Hill conferences DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE Letter from the Wisconsin SHRM State Council Director Joanne Krueger, Senior Talent Acquisition Consultant at the Medical College of Wisconsin "The human resources profession offers many career paths and adventures. You have an opportunity to choose your own HR adventure. As an enterprising professional, explore the many opportunities to find your passion. " Choose your own HR Adventure { continued }